Donde los caballeros medievales escondieron su último secreto frente al mar Egeo
The castle is a freely accessible site and is generally open 24 hours a day, although it is recommended to visit in daylight for greater safety. The best way to get there is by rental car from the city of Rhodes (about 50 km), and you can easily find it using Google Maps.
One of the great advantages of this attraction is that entry to Kritinia Castle is completely free. You do not need to make any reservation or buy tickets in advance; you simply arrive at the site and can freely explore the ruins.
The visit is relatively short; most travelers spend between 30 and 45 minutes walking around the walls and enjoying the scenery. It is the perfect amount of time to stretch your legs and take stunning photos if you are doing a road trip along the west coast.
Built in 1472 by the Knights of the Order of Saint John, this fortress had the crucial mission of protecting the island against Ottoman attacks. Its walls contain centuries of defensive history and offer a window into the island's medieval past, ideal to complement with an explanatory audio guide.
Without a doubt, sunset is the golden moment to visit Kritinia; watching the sun disappear behind the Aegean Sea and the nearby islands is a unique visual spectacle. If you prefer to avoid crowds (although it is not usually very busy) and the heat, early morning is also excellent.
Yes, access is difficult because you have to climb a series of fairly steep stone steps to reach the main entrance from the parking area. Unfortunately, the uneven terrain of the ruins is not suitable for wheelchairs or people with severe mobility problems.
Very close by is the picturesque village of Kritinia, where you can visit the Folklore Museum, and a short distance away is Kamiros Skala for fresh fish. I also recommend going to the mountain village of Embonas, famous throughout the island for its excellent wines and local taverns.
Wear comfortable closed shoes, as the ground is rocky, and make sure to bring water because kiosks at the entrance are not always open. Do not forget your camera, as from the top you will have the best panoramic views toward Chalki Island and the sea.
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